When it comes to travelling on a long-haul flight, many people turn to comfort items such as neck pillows, blankets and eye masks, but one frequent flyer says most are making a major mistake
Many people can often make the same flight mistake (stock image)
Before setting off on a long-haul flights, most travellers know to wear comfortable clothes to make their journey more easy and relaxing. Beyond this, many passengers also bring along comfort items like neck pillows, blankets and eye masks.
Yet, according to traveller @epthelatino, countless people are making a same mistake with their neck pillows when it comes to flights – and it’s costing them precious sleep. In his clip, he suggests that most long haul flight passengers position their neck pillows with the opening at the front, which fails to adequately support the neck when the head drops forward.
Instead, he says they should rotate it so the gap sits at the back, which he says enables you to rest your head in various positions whilst maintaining proper support.
Reacting to his clip, one viewer said: “I think the inventor should make a doughnut pillow instead.” Another viewer added: “You are doing it all wrong – try sideways.”
A third commented: “I wear my neck pillow sideways. It’s more comfortable… thank me later.” One more person said: “Ooooh! Okay. That’s why it’s called a neck pillow.”
Whilst another added: “I’ve used it this way – it’s way better than how it was meant to be used.”
Offering their perspective, the experts at Travel Sentry stated: “Once you have chosen the right pillow, it’s crucial to place it correctly for maximum comfort.
“Many people make the mistake of placing the pillow behind their head, which can cause their head to fall forward, leading to neck pain.
“Instead, place the pillow on your shoulder and lean your head towards it. This position will support your neck and keep your head from falling forward.”
They suggest that getting to grips with a neck pillow properly “takes practice”, noting: “Like any skill, mastering the art of travel pillow comfort takes practice.
“Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get it right on your first try. Keep experimenting with different positions and adjustments until you find what works best for you.
“With time, you will become a pro at using a travel pillow and enjoy a comfortable journey every time.”
However, if you’re still finding it difficult to settle in, travellers are advised to explore additional comfort aids.
They continued: “If you have trouble finding a comfortable position with just a travel pillow, you can use additional support.
“For example, use a blanket or scarf to support your lower back. Alternatively, place a small pillow or a rolled-up jacket under your knees to relieve pressure on your lower back.”
